Heather Broom is winner of Lake Chatuge tourney

Broom had boat trouble on day one but still managed a five fish limit weighing in at 9.89 pounds and putting her in fifth place.

On day two Broom was in her dad’s 1995 Ranger with no electronics, but her knowledge of the lake allowed her to move around and fish other points and islands that she could not get to on day one.

“That is my dad’s pride and joy, and I am so appreciative of him letting me use it to finish out the tournament,” Broom said.

As for fishing, she said, “The blue herrings are just starting to spawn. When you can find them, you can get the bass fired up. My go to bait was a fluke.”

This paid off on day two, with a bag weighing in at 13.90 pounds anchored by a 3.37-pounder and a final weight of 23.79 pounds.

She edged out Pam Martin-Wells of Bainbridge, Georgia, who finished at 23.14 pounds. Lisa Johnson of Centre, Alabama was third at 22.76 pounds. Completing the top five were Teri Cindric of Hermitage, Tennessee at 17 pounds and Texas pro Pam Ridgle at 16.25 pounds.

Broom’s win qualifies her for the Lady Bass Classic in October as long as she fishes the Wildcard event in June on Truman Reservoir in Missouri.

Broom won the award for the largest bass in the Pro Division with her 3.37-pounder.

She was awarded a Duckett Rod as part of her first-place prize package.

Anglers are now setting their sights on the Wildcard event June 15-16 on Truman Reservoir, where the Angler of the Year race will be decided along with qualification for the Lady Bass Classic in October.

For more information on the Lady Bass Anglers Association, visit www.ladybassanglers.com. Those interested may follow the group on Facebook and Twitter and subscribe to the Lady Bass Anglers Association YouTube channel.